Chrysler Donation - World War II Jeep

General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower once attributed the Allied victory in World War II to four things, one of which was the Jeep. During the war, the U.S. military required a new all-terrain vehicle, capable of transporting both men and materiel. This new vehicle became known as the “Jeep,” although the exact origins of the name are not known for certain. Almost 650,000 Jeeps were produced during World War II. One of the main manufacturers of the Jeep was Willys-Overland Motors, a forerunner of today’s Chrysler Motors. View more pictures of the Jeep in our photo gallery.

Chrysler's Generosity
In May 2008, in recognition of Military Appreciation Month, Chrysler Motors presented the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation with a donation of $100,000 for its 5-Star Campaign, as well as a fully restored World War II Jeep. The goal of the fund-raising effort is $4.5 million to expand and modernize the MacArthur Memorial’s exhibit and educational facilities.

“In keeping with Chrysler's tradition of support for the U.S. military and the courageous men and women who defend this great country, the company and our foundation are proud to contribute to the MacArthur Memorial,” said Bob Nardelli, the automaker’s chairman and chief executive officer. “We want to make sure that future generations understand General MacArthur's ideals of ‘Duty, Honor and Country,’ and appreciate the heroic sacrifices made by so many who have and continue to serve in the United States armed forces.”

Their Donation
The Chrysler Foundation's donation to the MacArthur Memorial will help to expand the memorial's education capabilities. The new facility will triple the changing exhibit space, add a sophisticated multimedia theater, and will provide a “great hall” for visitor orientation. The restored Jeep will be exhibited in the new building.

“On behalf of all the directors and members of the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation, we are delighted to accept these generous gifts from the Chrysler Foundation,” Arthur Diamonstein, the MacArthur Foundation's chairman, said. “This partnership reinforces our mutual objectives of preserving and presenting the legacy of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.”